Types of Fireflies Fireflies are more than glowing summer lights theyre vital pollinators, pest-controllers, and indicators of healthy ecosystems. Sidewinder Photinus brimleyi unique angled flight Black Firefly Lucidota atra rare & non-glowing Blue Ghost Firefly Phausis reticulata soft, eerie glow Diurnal Fireflies Lychnas sp. active in daylight Photinus pyralis common backyard firefly Photuris versicolor known for mimicry tricks Pyractomena borealis early-season glow Pleototmus pallens late-season flasher Larvae various species live underground for 12 years before glowing Protect fireflies by reducing lawn chemicals, keeping dark skies, and leaving wild edges in your garden.